Are Budget Airlines Worth the Low Price?

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Budget airlines have revolutionized the way we travel, making it possible for millions of people to fly who might not have been able to afford it otherwise. Carriers like Ryanair, EasyJet, Transavia, Frontier Airlines, and jetBlue dominate the low-cost segment by offering cheaper fares than traditional airlines. But are these lower prices worth the trade-offs? Let’s explore the pros and cons of budget airlines, along with some key details and statistics to help you decide whether they’re the right choice for your next trip.

The Benefits of Budget Airlines

First, we’ll dive in to the many reasons why passengers choose budget airlines. After all, saving money is good, right?

1. Affordability

The biggest draw of budget airlines is, of course, their low ticket prices. Flights on carriers like Ryanair or Frontier Airlines can often be booked for as little as €20 ($25), especially during sales. These airlines cut costs by eliminating many traditional perks, which is why they can offer fares so low.

2. Shorter Flight Routes

Budget airlines excel at providing options for short-haul and point-to-point routes. They often connect smaller cities or secondary airports directly, which can save time and money for travelers living in or near those areas.

3. Accessibility for All

With budget airlines, travel is no longer a luxury for the few. They make flying accessible to students, families on a budget, and solo adventurers alike. If you’re willing to forego a bit of comfort, you can explore destinations that might otherwise be out of reach.

Ryanair Boeing 737 touching down at Prague Airport on a clear day.

The Downside of Budget Airlines

Yes, there’s a catch to those super-low prices. In fact, many of the low prices are designed to entice you to buy a ticket, only to face more costs later. By becoming aware of these costs, you can make an informed decision to get the best value for your money.

1. Extra Fees Add Up

While the initial ticket price might be tempting, budget airlines have a habit of charging for just about everything else. Some examples include:

  • Baggage Fees: Most budget airlines charge for checked luggage, and even carry-on bags can incur fees. For example, Ryanair charges for a carry-on bag, and it can be up to €50 if you don’t pre-book it. The prices get more expensive if you book it the same day as the flight or if you have the bags with you when you’re checking in.
  • Seat Selection: Want to sit with your travel companion? You’ll likely have to pay extra for that privilege. EasyJet, for instance, charges anywhere from £5 to £30 per seat. And different seat locations cost different amounts. Want to be close to the front? Those are more expensive. Let’s not even get started about the spacious Exit Row seats.
  • Mandatory Online Check In: Some airlines charge an extra fee if you check in at the counter, even if you have to leave your checked luggage. You must check in online before a specific time, or you will face an extra fee. The fee will be charged to either check in or print your boarding pass with an actual person. We experienced this personally, and it was extremely annoying as the fee was nearly half of our ticket price! They want you to use their app for their boarding pass to avoid printing it, and also so that they can try to sell you more tickets at a later date.
  • Food and Drinks: Unlike traditional airlines, meals and snacks are not included. Even water may cost €3 or more.
  • Boarding Priority: If you want to avoid the chaos of general boarding, expect to pay for priority boarding.
  • Infant in your lap: Yes, you’ll pay for your child even if they are not in their own seat.
  • Missed Connections: Many budget airlines don’t book connecting flights as a single ticket. So, if your first flight is late and you miss your connection, you will have to pay extra for a later flight, even if it’s with the same airline. EasyJet charges around $150 for a “rescue fee” if you show up late within 2 hours of your flight departing. You’ll have to pay this fee even if your first flight was with EasyJet, as they don’t rebook you or handle any connections.
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These fees can quickly turn a “budget” ticket into something closer to what a traditional airline might charge. Pay close attention to these fees when booking, as you might need to pay for them at the time of booking or right before the flight itself.

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2. Smaller Airports and Less Convenient Locations

Many budget airlines operate out of secondary airports, which are often further away from city centers. For instance, Paris Beauvais Airport (used by Ryanair) is a two-hour bus ride from central Paris, adding time and transportation costs.

3. Reduced Comfort

Budget airlines maximize capacity by cramming as many seats as possible into their planes. This often translates to minimal legroom and narrower seats. For example, Ryanair and Frontier Airlines typically offer a seat pitch (distance between rows) of 28-29 inches, compared to 31-32 inches on many traditional carriers.

4. Encouragement to Spend More

Budget airlines heavily promote onboard sales, offering everything from scratch cards to duty-free items. The constant sales pitches can feel overwhelming, especially on long flights.

5. Punctuality and Customer Service

While budget airlines work hard to keep costs low, their punctuality can sometimes suffer. According to 2023 statistics:

  • Ryanair: Approximately 81% of flights were on time, making it one of the better-performing budget airlines.
  • EasyJet: Around 75% of flights were on time.
  • Frontier Airlines: On-time performance was lower, hovering around 68%.
    For comparison, traditional carriers like Delta Air Lines and Singapore Airlines boast on-time rates of over 85%.

Additionally, customer service on budget airlines tends to be less responsive, as they often prioritize efficiency over personal attention.

JetBlue Airbus with luggage carts at Punta Cana Airport, Dominican Republic.

Traditional Airlines: The Alternative

Traditional airlines, such as Delta, Lufthansa, or Emirates, offer a more inclusive experience. Here’s what you typically get:

  • Included Baggage: Many airlines allow a checked bag and a carry-on at no extra cost. Some airlines charge for a checked bag, but allow free carry-on baggage (usually a “small” suitcase plus a “personal item”).
  • Seat Selection: Standard seating is usually included with the ticket, with additional fees only for premium options. Generally, you will almost always be seated with your group if you book together.
  • Food and Drinks: Meals and snacks are usually included, even on many short-haul flights.
  • Comfort: Traditional carriers provide more legroom and wider seats, making the journey more pleasant. You’ll also find in-flight entertainment for free on longer flights, as well as free wi-fi on some airlines.
  • Customer Service: You’ll be able to check in at the airport with an actual human if you need help.
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While tickets may be pricier upfront, the added convenience, comfort, and lack of surprise fees can make them a better value for longer journeys or for those traveling with families.

Who Should Fly Budget Airlines?

Budget airlines are ideal for:

  • Short-Haul Travelers: If the flight is just a couple of hours, the lack of comfort might not matter.
  • Light Packers: Travelers who can manage with just a personal item or small carry-on can save significantly.
  • Flexible Adventurers: If you’re not tied to specific dates or destinations, budget airlines often have unbeatable last-minute deals.

So, Are Budget Airlines Worth It?

Whether budget airlines are worth it depends on your priorities. If price is your main concern, they offer unbeatable value. However, if you value comfort, convenience, and predictability, a traditional airline might be the better choice.

Ultimately, the best strategy is to compare the total all-in costs (including fees and extras) of both options. A budget airline might appear cheaper at first glance, but after adding luggage, seating, and other fees, you could find that the price difference shrinks—or even disappears. Do not be fooled by the initial ticket price, as this will not be your final ticket price! The marketing strategies of budget airlines can often lead you to believe you are paying less, so you’ll have to do the math yourself.

Flying budget can be an adventure in itself, but with a bit of planning, you can make an informed decision that fits both your needs and your wallet.

What’s your experience with budget airlines? Share your thoughts below.

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